Naveen Patnaik seeks PM Modi’s help for international airport in Puri

BHUBANESWAR: Chief minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s help to set up an international airport in Puri, just 60 km from the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.
“Puri is one of the four holy dhams in the country. The world famous Rath Yatra in Puri attracts lakhs of pilgrims and visitors from across the globe every year. The holy Rath Yatra is celebrated across 192 countries. The proposed international airport will help bring devotees from across the world to Puri and promote Jagannath culture globally,” Naveen wrote to the prime minister, requesting him to take up the matter with the ministry of civil aviation.

“The state government has identified land for the proposed airport in Puri. I request that the civil aviation ministry may be asked to take up this airport as a priority project,” the chief minister stated.
Naveen, who proposed that it should be called the Sri Jagannath International Airport, said Puri has the potential to become a hub of international tourism and economic activities.
He said the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO world heritage site, is just 35 km from Puri while the adjacent Ramchandi-Chandrabhaga beaches provide a unique experience to domestic and international tourists.
“Puri has been recently transformed into a Blue Flag beach with world-class experience for tourists,” he wrote.

‘Airport will attract more tourists’

He said the Konark Sun Temple, a UNESCO world heritage site, is just 35 km from Puri while the adjacent Ramchandi-Chandrabhaga beaches provide a unique experience to domestic and international touristPuri has been recently transformed into a Blue Flag beach with world-class experience for tourists. Puri is originally linked to two Ramsar sites – Chilika Lake on one side and Bhitarakanika national park on the other. Both these sites have huge potential for international eco-tourism,” he wrote.
He said the airport would attract more Buddhist tourists. Most of the historic Buddhist sites, including Dhauli and Ratnagiri, are within 3 hours driving distance from Puri.
Naveen added that the sprawling coastline and adjoining bay area near Puri is an ideal location to promote new economic activities, leisure and hospitality, health and spiritual centres.
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